Development reaches to the far edge of Brewerytown with Eastern Lofts

madeline presland

Eastern Lofts, set in a historic building at Cecil B. Moore and West Glenwood, should be ready for tenants early next year.

Eastern Lofts will have a communal courtyard.

If you’re searching for soaring ceilings, but don’t have a soaring budget, you might find what you’re looking for at the far edge of Brewerytown. Eastern Lofts, set in a historic building at Cecil B. Moore and West Glenwood, should be ready for tenants early next year.

The building is the former American Railway Express Company Garage, erected in 1922 and now on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s being turned into 37 lofts that will preserve elements of the original building, like ceilings reaching as high as 17 feet and exposed brick. But getting those features at the Eastern Lofts price point — rents are $850 to $1,750 — means stepping outside the comfort zone of Center City. Way outside.

“We’re forging forward and pioneering in a way,” says realtor Stephen Ferguson of Stephen Sells Philly, who is marketing the property. “It’s the north side of Brewerytown, on the grounds of Fairmount Park and across the street from Strawberry Mansion. It’s an area that hasn’t seen as much development in the past. [But] there’s a lot going on there now.”

Just in case being a short stroll away from Philadelphia’s largest public park isn’t enough access to green space, the building will have its own elevated courtyard equipped with outdoor seating, dining tables and heat lamps.

“Outdoor space is a big thing in Philadelphia,” says Ferguson. “It’s an exciting component for what I envision the future residents will be really attracted to, and privacy is always preferred.”

Other building amenities include a fitness area, bike storage on the ground floor and a dog run. Inside the apartments, you’ll find hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances. Commercial space at Eastern Lofts will include a cafe to fit in with Brewerytown’s up-and-coming vibe.